Section: 33:1-24.1: Findings, declarations relative to issuance of special licenses to serve alcoholic beverages in smart growth development projects.

1. The Legislature finds and declares that:

a. Smart growth is an innovative approach to land use planning that directs the State's resources and funding to projects that enhance the quality of life for New Jersey residents;

b. Smart growth encourages the development of distinctive, attractive communities with mixed use development, walkable town centers and neighborhoods, a range of housing options, and a variety of transportation modes;

c. Small businesses, including restaurants and other establishments that serve alcoholic beverages, enhance the economic viability of a smart growth community and the quality of life for residents and visitors;

d. Many municipalities in New Jersey do not have a sufficient number of liquor licenses for all the establishments that wish to serve alcoholic beverages to patrons; and

e. In order to foster and encourage development in smart growth communities, it is appropriate to create special licenses to serve alcoholic beverages for establishments located in smart growth projects and to provide financial compensation to alcoholic beverage licensees in those communities who already have established businesses and paid market value for their licenses.